Did you know that Saudi Arabia, a predominantly desert country, boasts a thriving agricultural sector? Al Qassim province, often referred to as a "food basket," is renowned for its vast production of wheat and dates. Situated in the central highlands of Saudi Arabia, Al Qassim is an agricultural powerhouse, yielding not only staple crops like wheat and dates, but also citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, as well as pomegranates and a variety of vegetables. This region is also called as the "land of trees" due to its impressive collection of over eight million palm trees. As a result of its agricultural productivity, Al Qassim ranks as the seventh most populated region in the Kingdom.

The region of Al Qassim is not only renowned for its fertile agricultural land but also for its wide array of attractions and activities. Tourists from all corners of the globe are lured by its historical landmarks, museums, scenic mountains, traditional villages, and more. Adding to the region's allure is the annual Buraydah Date Festival, a 35-day celebration that marks the end of the summer season. This festival is a magnet for tourists and farmers from neighboring countries, regions, and provinces. Travelers journeying to Al Qassim by road are treated to a delightful road tour, as the highways and streets are impeccably maintained and interconnected, making it a breeze for tourists to access the various attractions in the region.

Top Things to Do in Al Qassim

Owing to its desert landscape, Al Qassim shows the true picture of Saudi Arabia's tourism. Al Qassim houses various tourist places offering various activities; these places provide a glimpse into the historical events and significance of the spellbound natural beauty of deserts. Here is a list of activities you can do when visiting Al Qassim. 

Explore Uyun Al-Jiwa

Uyun Al-Jiwa, which translates to 'The Valley's Ponds' in Arabic, is a historically rich area that derives its name from the numerous water ponds that used to encompass the region. This Saudi Governate has a deep-rooted history that dates back to the Thamudic period, evidenced by several ancient Thamudic paintings depicting the daily lives of the people who inhabited the area centuries ago. These remarkable paintings, discovered in the Al Jiwa region, have provided invaluable insights into some of the earliest traces of human existence on Earth.

Situated in the northwestern Al-Qassim Region, Uyun Al-Jiwa is located 51.1 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Buraydah, the capital of the province. Travelers can conveniently reach Uyun Al-Jiwa by flying into the Gassim Regional Airport, which is the nearest airport to the area. From there, taxis are readily available to transport visitors to both well-known landmarks and lesser-explored parts of the city.

For tourists interested in exploring the area’s rich heritage, a visit to the Al Margab Watchtower is a must. This ancient mud-and-adobe tower served as a strategic lookout point for incoming invaders, offering a tangible link to the region's defensive history. Additionally, the Old Uyun, comprising a cluster of dwellings constructed from clay and mud, stands as a captivating representation of traditional architecture in the area. Moreover, visitors can explore the lively Old Souq and purchase unique souvenirs as a memento of their experience.

Visit Buraydah Museum

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Al Qassim at this extraordinary historical museum. From ancient artifacts to everyday household objects, the exhibits offer a fascinating insight into the bygone era of the region. Not to be missed is the grand pavilion dedicated to King Abdul Aziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud, featuring his personal car, a heritage hall, and an exhibit dedicated to Aramco. The museum also offers a treasure trove of publications detailing life in Buryadah city and Al Qassim Province. If you're a history enthusiast, this museum is a must-visit on your itinerary.

Al Bassam Heritage House

If you want to experience the old Arabia, a visit to Al Bassam Heritage House is a must. Situated near the western gate of Unayzah City, this Heritage House spans over 3,500 square meters and is constructed in the traditional Najdi style using mud. The palace was completed in 1421 AH, underwent several restoration works, and has since been converted into a heritage center. The heritage center comprises four main sections: Men's reception section, the Family section, the Garden Section, and Animal pens. Additionally, the heritage house features a majlis, an open yard, and a dining hall. The foundation of the building is made of stones, while the ceilings, doors, and windows are crafted from tamarisk wood.

Explore Al Qassim Traditional Villages

Get ready to explore the vibrant cultural heritage of Al-Qassim province! This captivating region is home to a number of wonderfully preserved traditional villages, each offering a unique and authentic experience. Mithnab, located 25 km southeast of Unaizah, is just waiting to be discovered, while the town of Al-Khabra boasts 300 houses built in a stunning and cohesive style. And that's not all – don't miss out on the chance to uncover the hidden gem of Madinah Munawarah, tucked away in this fascinating province. These traditional villages are not only steeped in history, but also come alive with markets, folklore games, monthly events, and lively auctions. Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable cultural journey!

Final Thoughts

Consider visiting Al Qassim during the winter, particularly in February and December when the weather is delightful, with average maximum temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. Exploring Al-Qassim over a three-day and two-night itinerary gives you the perfect opportunity to experience the region's major attractions. Al-Qassim is a hidden treasure in Saudi Arabia, with limited information available online about this province. Don't miss the chance to visit Uyun Al-Jiwa, Qassim Museum, and Qassim Traditional Villages during your trip to Al-Qassim.